Background & Aims : Various treatm ent methods have been introduced based on the etiology of social anxiety disorder and shyness. The aim of this study is to analyze the effectiveness of assertiveness training program on reducing social anxiety disorder symptoms and improving shyness among nurses.

  Materials & Methods : In a semi-experimental plan with a pre/post test 60 female nurses were engaged into two groups of experimental and control randomly. Experimental Group experienced a 6-session assertiveness group training while the control group did not receive such training. Social Anxiety and Shyness Stanford Kanvr tests were done before and after training for both groups. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods and techniques, including Statistical methods mean, independent T, Wilks Lambda multivariate analyses were used in order to analyze the data.

  Results : The results showed that there were significant differences between pre-test and post-test scores between the control and experimental groups. It means that assertiveness training reduces social anxiety and shyness scores in the experimental group than the control group.

  Conclusions : The present findings indicate that assertiveness group training can reduce symptoms of social anxiety disorder and shyness . Thus the findings can be used for planning to reduce or prevent an increase in social anxiety and improve shyness among the country's nurses.

  SOURCE: URMIA MED J 2013: 24(9): 681 ISSN: 1027-3727